Avoid Unneeded Conflict

Proverbs 3:30-32:

30 Do not contend with a man for no reason,when he has done you no harm.
31 Do not envy a man of violence and do not choose any of his ways,
32 for the devious person is an abomination to the LORD, but the upright are in his confidence.

Something I grew up believing is that a real man is ready for a fight at any time. Whether that's a physical fight or more often an intellectual battle, a man's honor is defended in conflict. That said, these verses are very convicting. They suggest that conflict is inherently bad. Surely it is required sometimes. There are plenty of examples of God promoting both real battles and intellectual debates. Seeking out strife and glorifying violence are not respected characteristics. To create contention for the sake of contention is not wise.